A highlight is the city’s stunning spider trees, transforming everyday streets into breathtaking canopies of creamy white and vibrant yellow.
Flowering from March to May, these seasonal blossoms have quickly become a favourite subject for local photographers and nature lovers alike.
One South China Morning Post photographer made his way to the bustling urban hubs of Mong Kok and Prince Edward to capture the magnificent spider trees in action.
Take a look at this visual tour and get inspired for your next weekend photo walk. These blooms are currently putting on a show you won’t want to miss.
Spider trees – named for the long and slender spider leg-like stamens that jut out from the tree’s flowers – in full bloom in Prince Edward. Photos: Eugene Lee
According to Flora Reipublicae Popularis Sinicae, locals in Shiping and Jianshu County in China’s Yunnan province would pick young leaves off spider trees and pickle them in salt to eat, giving the tree its Chinese name, “Vegetables from Heads of Tree (樹頭菜).
Spider trees are native to many tropical regions in Asia, including China. Its wood has been used to make plates and musical instruments, while its fruits can be used for dye.
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the tree’s leaves and stem can clear heat, detoxify and strengthen the stomach.
Its roots and bark can relieve pain, remove dampness and activate meridians – the paths that qi flows through.
Flowering from March to May, these seasonal blossoms have quickly become a favourite subject for local photographers and nature lovers alike.
